C1adjectivehealthscience
US/ˌdaɪ.əɡˈnɑː.stɪk/
UK/ˌdaɪ.əɡˈnɒs.tɪk/
used to find out what is wrong with a person, machine or system
In context
The doctor ordered a diagnostic test to find the cause of the pain.
The garage uses a diagnostic tool to read error codes from the engine.
We gave students a short diagnostic quiz on the first day.
Words that go with diagnostic
adjective + noun
- diagnostic testA diagnostic test showed that she had an infection.
- diagnostic toolThis software is a useful diagnostic tool.
- diagnostic procedureIt is a quick and painless diagnostic procedure.
- diagnostic criteriaDoctors follow strict diagnostic criteria for this illness.
- diagnostic imagingDiagnostic imaging helps doctors find the cause of pain.
adjective + preposition
- diagnostic ofThese symptoms are diagnostic of the flu.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
a diagnosis testCorrect: a diagnostic test